April 10, 2012

Problem Solving Series 7 Make the Change Stick

Allright, here we are. The last step of solving our problem.

We have spent so much time, money, effort in getting to the root cause of the problem, so it only make sense if we make sure it does not return, right?

The truth is, over 50% of problems solved tend to recur.There are several reasons why this happens:

1. We are still solving the symptom of a deeper problem.

Usually when this happens, our solutions lead to undesired effects popping out in another area or another part of the process. It could also be identified if our solution puts 'pressure' in the process/area of concerns. Dig deeper in the root cause analysis or find another layer of assumptions to break to get away from this situation.

2. No buy-ins from stakeholders.

We know this to be the case when the stakeholders simply do not commit to the change. When solutions are not followed without any proof of undesired effects or 'pressure', it is time to have quality time with the stakeholders to get their buy-ins. A better way to fix this is to get them involved from the beginning. On extreme cases where they simply refuse to change, we need to create a burning platform where they just have no other way but follows. This can be done by creating environment of crisis - either as an organization or as an individual through his/her direct superior.

3. No understanding of the solutions

This happens when our prescribed solutions are not followed properly. Trainings, socialization, and close monitoring in the short term and long term will fix this.

Usually, we know this step will be successful or not way earlier in the project - The best way to handle problems here is to handle them when they are small and new. As soon as we identify no buy-ins or lack of communication, we need to address it even before we go into Step 7.

2 komentar:

  1. What about continuous improvement? Usually improvements follow a cycle where we keep improving after we are finished.

    BalasHapus
  2. Thank you for your input... That should probably be step number 8 where we fight to get to ideal state of control.

    BalasHapus